Snowy Surprise: Why Eastern Missouri Might See More Snow This Weekend

Weather Alert in Place for Friday Night and Saturday

Eastern Missouri is preparing for its first snowfall of the season, with a weather alert issued for Friday night and Saturday. The region is expected to receive 2 to 4 inches of snow, with some areas potentially seeing even more.

The Science Behind the Snowfall

The phenomenon can be attributed to some fascinating physics. Clouds are a complex mix of ice crystals, supercooled water droplets, and water vapor. While most are familiar with condensation and evaporation, fewer are aware of sublimation—the process where a solid turns directly into a gas, or vice versa, without becoming a liquid first. This occurs frequently within clouds.

When water vapor transforms into ice crystals or ice evaporates into vapor, it absorbs energy from the environment. This process cools the atmosphere. As precipitation rates increase, these processes occur more frequently, leading to further cooling. This cooling effect could sustain snowfall in eastern Missouri through late Saturday morning.

Travel Advisory

If the high-end forecast is accurate, some areas east of Mid-Missouri could receive more than 4 inches of snow. If you have holiday travel plans, it's advisable to complete them before sunset on Friday. Otherwise, consider avoiding the roads on Saturday until they are cleared later in the weekend.

Why This Matters

Understanding these weather processes is crucial for better preparation. It's not just about predicting when snow will fall, but also comprehending the underlying mechanisms. This knowledge aids in making informed decisions, whether for travel or ensuring safety during winter weather.